What is the purpose of the cell division process?

The purpose of the cell division process fundamentally revolves around producing new cells for growth, repair, and reproduction. During growth, organisms need more cells to increase their size and complexity. For repair, when tissues are damaged, cell division allows the body to replace lost or injured cells, restoring function and integrity to those tissues. Additionally, in many organisms, cell division is crucial for reproduction; for instance, in single-celled organisms, it enables asexual reproduction by forming new individual organisms. In multicellular organisms, it plays a significant role in producing gametes for sexual reproduction.

This comprehensive view of the functions of cell division underscores its importance in maintaining life, promoting development, and ensuring the continuity of species.